“Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.” (Prov 31:31

If my grandma Rena were still with us, she would have turned 100 on September 1. I could tell you story after story about her and her love for life and her fun personality. But what I remember most is her love for people and for Jesus. She is the person who taught me the most about the value of relationships.

I have wonderful memories of playing with my cousins at Grandma’s house. My grandparents kept a large metal trash can full of old clothes for dress up. While we girls tried on my mom’s old dresses, my brother and several boy cousins played video games. No matter how old I get or how far from each other we are, I will always remember my cousins as my first best friends thanks to those fun times at Grandma’s.

Grandma’s house was the place where I went for a listening ear, a chocolate chip cookie, and solid advice based on Scripture. I spent as much time at Grandma’s as I did at my own home. My grandma was in poor health for a while, so she didn’t get out much. Even when her health improved, she stayed home most of the time, just getting out to buy groceries or go to the doctor. Even so, people flocked to see my grandma. I watched as she welcomed her visitors – some family, all friends.

Grandma taught me the value of reconciling relationships that had been damaged and the importance of never giving up on someone. I learned I may have to let them go their own way, but I can still pray for them, which is the most powerful gift I could offer.

Grandma also showed me the importance of having my own, personal relationship with Jesus. By watching and listening to my grandma, I learned that God really does care about us and the things going on in our lives. Grandma loved to quote Luke 12:7 to support this idea: “Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered.” Yes, God would surely take care of us.

Grandma has been gone for over fourteen years now. I miss her every day, and even now wish I could sit down at her table, chocolate chip cookie in front of me, and ask for her advice.  I’m so glad I had 26 years with her. I’m thankful for the example she set and that my mom and her siblings continue to live out today.

Dear Jesus, thank you for my grandma and the example of she provided. She always pointed me toward you. Thank you for her love of people and the lessons she instilled in me about the value of relationships. Help me to live as an example of you just as she did. Amen.